India: Protest break out in Kashmir after militant leader killed May 27

Event

Violent anti-India protests took place in Kashmir following the death of a prominent militant commander in the region on Saturday, May 27. Security forces killed Sabzar Ahmad Bhat, the leader of Hizbul Mujahideen, during an overnight raid in the Tral area on Saturday. At least one other militant was also killed by the government forces. The news of  Bhat’s death triggered spontaneous protests throughout the Kashmir region which led to clashes with police. At least one person was killed and ten wounded during the anti-India demonstrations. According to media reports, many shops and businesses are closing in the region, including in Srinagar. Additional protests are likely in the coming hours and days and may result in further clashes.

Context

Hizbul Mujahideen is one of the largest local militant groups that has been fighting against Indian rule since an armed rebellion started in 1989.

Indian-held Kashmir has been particularly tense since April 9, when eight people were killed by police and paramilitary troops during election day violence. Armed clashes between protesters who oppose Indian rule and government forces have become more frequent since the killing of a popular rebel leader by security forces in July 2016, which sparked widespread unrest.

Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British rule in 1947. Both claim the territory in its entirety.

Advice

Individuals present in India are advised to stay away from all demonstrations, adhere to all instructions issued by authorities, and monitor developments to the situation. Anticipate localized transportation disruptions and avoid affected areas as much as possible.

As a reminder, some Western governments advise their citizens against nonessential travel to the west of Jammu and Kashmir state and against all travel to the border region with Pakistan (direct vicinity of the Line of Control) due to the high threat of terrorism.